While there is limited historical evidence of a widespread craze for Pashmina specifically in the 19th century, it is important to note that Pashmina has been a highly valued textile for centuries and has enjoyed popularity among royalty, nobility, and affluent individuals for its luxuriousness, warmth, and beauty.

Pashmina has a long history that dates back to ancient times, and its origins can be traced to the Himalayan regions of India, Nepal, and Tibet. It has been traditionally handcrafted by skilled artisans using fine cashmere wool obtained from the undercoat of Changthangi goats, and its production has been considered a specialized craft passed down through generations.

Historically, Pashmina shawls were highly sought after by aristocracy and nobility in South Asia, Central Asia, and the Middle East for their exquisite craftsmanship, exceptional softness, and warmth. These shawls were often associated with wealth, status, and prestige, and were considered luxury items that were reserved for the elite. Pashmina shawls were prized possessions and were often gifted to royalty, used as dowry items, or exchanged as diplomatic gifts among kingdoms and empires.

During the 19th century, Pashmina shawls gained popularity among European nobility and upper-class individuals due to their exoticism and perceived rarity. The British East India Company, which had established trade routes with South Asia, brought Pashmina shawls to Europe, where they were highly coveted by fashion-conscious individuals. Pashmina shawls were often featured in European fashion, and their elegance and beauty were appreciated by the fashionable elite of the time.

In the 19th century, there was also a growing interest in Orientalism, which romanticized and idealized the cultures and traditions of the East, including the Himalayan regions known for producing Pashmina. This cultural fascination further fueled the demand for Pashmina shawls among the European elite, and they became coveted fashion accessories.

While there may not have been a widespread “craze” specifically for Pashmina in the 19th century, it is evident that Pashmina shawls were highly valued and sought after by the affluent and fashionable segments of society during that time. The allure of Pashmina’s exquisite craftsmanship, luxuriousness, and cultural significance has persisted through the centuries, making it a timeless and coveted textile to this day.